On 24 April 2025, the UK amended the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. These changes include lifting restrictions on 12 entities, such as the Syrian Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior, alongside specific media groups. Restrictions on key sectors like financial services and energy infrastructure have also been eased to encourage essential investment and economic recovery in Syria.

These amendments also retain the UK’s ability to impose future sanctions if required, ensuring long-term flexibility.

Despite easing sanctions on certain entities, financial sanctions, including asset freezes, remain in place for those linked to oppressive practices or illicit activities like captagon trafficking and human rights violations. These measures reflect the UK’s commitment to global human rights standards.

The amended sanctions, governed by the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, include detailed requirements for affected entities. Businesses operating in or with ties to Syria should prioritise compliance, consult legal experts and consider exemptions for humanitarian or protective activities when applicable.

Amendments to the UK’s Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 apply in substance to the British Overseas Territories, as confirmed by Section 2 of the Syria (Sanctions) (Overseas Territories) Order 2020. The Regulations, as amended from time to time, extend to each territory listed in Schedule 1. The Syria (Sanctions) (Overseas Territories) Order 2020 can be found here. It is expected that the 2020 Order will be amended in due course as well.

The press release can be found here and the guidance here.